In Depth
The cemetery was established during the 1940s to honor the memory of those who perished during the war. Many of the individuals buried here belonged to the Chinese, American, British, Indian, and Kachin forces who were part of the Allied campaign to drive out Japanese forces from Burma (now Myanmar). Tragically, a large number of them lost their lives not in combat but due to malaria, snake bites, disease, and accidents while working in the dense jungles and harsh terrain of the region.
At the heart of the cemetery lies a large memorial mound believed to be a mass burial site, marking the resting place of those who could not be individually identified. Though time and nature once took their toll—elephants and grave raiders damaged many parts—the cemetery has since been restored and preserved, now protected by a boundary wall and maintained with care. It stands today not just as a site of remembrance but as a symbol of international unity and sacrifice.
Historical Significance
Lekhapani was the starting point of the Stilwell Road, built during World War II to connect Ledo (India) to Kunming (China) through the treacherous hills of Myanmar. The construction was one of the most challenging engineering feats of its time, carried out by Allied forces and local workers under extremely adverse conditions. The cemetery became the final resting place for many of these heroes who never saw the completion of their mission.
Visiting Information
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Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
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Photography: Allowed (respectful behavior recommended)
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Best Time to Visit: November to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploration
How to Reach Lekhapani WW-II Cemetery
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By Air: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport (Mohanbari), approximately 65 km from Lekhapani. Taxis and shared cabs are available from the airport.
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By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Tinsukia, located about 40 km away. From Tinsukia, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Lekhapani.
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By Road: The cemetery is well-connected via National Highway 315. Regular bus services and private taxis operate from Digboi, Margherita, and Tinsukia.
Where to Stay?
While Lekhapani is a small town, nearby places like Margherita and Digboi offer comfortable lodging options:
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Digboi Tourist Lodge (Assam Tourism)
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Hotel Galaxy, Digboi
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Margherita Eco Resort
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Namdang Guest House, IOCL Township
These hotels provide easy access to nearby attractions such as Digboi Oil Museum, Stilwell Road, and War Cemeteries of Longtong and Digboi.
Nearby Attractions
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Stilwell Road Museum – Showcasing the history of the Allied operations in Assam.
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Digboi Oil Refinery – The oldest operating oil refinery in Asia.
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Namdapha National Park – A pristine wildlife destination in Arunachal Pradesh.
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Digboi Golf Course & War Cemetery – Another historical site from the WWII era.
The Lekhapani WWII Cemetery is not just a memorial—it’s a historical journey that connects the present with a significant chapter of world history. Visitors leave with a sense of reverence and reflection upon the immense human effort that shaped the wartime landscape of Assam.
Lekhapani WWII Cemetery Quick Info Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Lekhapani Railway Station, Tinsukia District, Assam |
| Established | During World War II (1940s) |
| Significance | Burial ground of Allied soldiers from the Stilwell Road campaign |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Timings | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily) |
| Nearest Airport | Dibrugarh Airport (65 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Tinsukia Junction (40 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | November – March |
| Nearby Attractions | Stilwell Road, Digboi Oil Refinery, Namdapha National Park |
| Maintained By | Local Administration & Assam Tourism Department |
FAQs on Lekhapani WWII Cemetery
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What is the history of Lekhapani WWII Cemetery?
It was established during World War II to bury soldiers and workers who died while constructing the Stilwell Road in Assam. -
Where is Lekhapani WWII Cemetery located?
It is situated near the Lekhapani Railway Station in Tinsukia district, Assam. -
Who are buried in Lekhapani Cemetery?
Soldiers and workers from Chinese, British, American, Indian, and Kachin forces who served the Allied cause. -
Is there any entry fee for Lekhapani WWII Cemetery?
No, entry to the cemetery is free for all visitors. -
What are the visiting hours of Lekhapani War Cemetery?
The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. -
How can I reach Lekhapani Cemetery from Dibrugarh Airport?
You can hire a taxi or cab for a 65 km drive to Lekhapani via Margherita. -
What is the best time to visit Lekhapani WWII Cemetery?
The best time is between November and March when the weather is pleasant. -
Are there accommodations near Lekhapani Cemetery?
Yes, hotels are available in nearby towns like Digboi and Margherita. -
What other attractions are near Lekhapani WWII Cemetery?
Nearby places include Digboi Oil Refinery, Stilwell Road, and Namdapha National Park. -
Why is Lekhapani Cemetery historically important?
It represents the sacrifices made by Allied soldiers during the construction of Stilwell Road, connecting India and China during WWII.
